Paper Clutter Solutions Live with Angela Brown

[@AskAngelaBrown]

NOTE: The clutter shows from this channel have been moved over to youtube.com/@hoardingworld - come join us there where we can focus on finding a balance with our stuff.

[@terrytari1891]

Great video, Angela!

[@sashacalicat3977]

I'm entering my driveway when I grab the mail. Most of it does not make it past the garbage can at the top of the driveway. That's my mail system.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Getting rid of it before going into your home, works great!

[@lifewithfizz1329]

So I'm borrowing this. I have now moved my paper recycling bin to be tucked under a table by the front door. Mail comes through the door, I sort it and junk goes in the box. Up till now the recycling box was by a different door and I've left a trail of paper through the house. Thank you for jolting my brain into something sensible!

[@angelagfountain258]

@@AskAngelaBrown a

[@DivineLightPaladin]

Identity theft is a concern with that though, no?

[@sashacalicat3977]

@@DivineLightPaladin I guess it would be if I didn't live in the middle of nowhere.

[@southerngrandma4353]

I love all your videos! You have been an inspiration to me. I’m learning from you even though I am 77 years old. Thank you! 😊👍

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I'm so glad! Thank you so much for the feedback, I appreciate it!

[@southerngrandma4353]

@@AskAngelaBrown You’re welcome 😊

[@nancyfisher2128]

I am seeing a lot of us older people really relating to Angela in a good way! I love you, Angela!

[@patcavasin5947]

I've recently finished shredding all old papers, bills, documents...my file cabinet is almost empty...my adult kids will thank me some day. Thanks for all your suggestions.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

What great progress you've made! 🙌 That's fantastic. Thank you for being here! 😀

[@jihanmcdonald3087]

Having done this for a parent who inherited Their parent's papers, I can affirm that your adult children absolutely will

[@kimpratt3393]

You are my new superhero, Angela. Just finished this paperclutter video and am going to hit the trunk of junk with enthusiasm. I do some things well, but not paperclutter. I'm 71, so it's about time I got organized and decluttered.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

"The trunk of junk"- love that! Let me know about your progress! 👍😃

[@victoriatanzi361]

I’m going through these ClutterCorner videos. Love them. While I listened this morning I wiped down my kitchen cupboards then scrubbed my backsplash. Wow! It looks so clean in here!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I love this! Multitasking at its finest...keep it going!

[@melindagibson6358]

I find it really helpful to listen to your tips and insight while I clean. It helps keep me going when I want to stop. And I always learn something or have “aha” moments. Thank you!! You help make cleaning and decluttering fun and non judgemental.

[@marshabeatty6589]

Angela I love your “bedside manner “💚 You are so compassionate and personable. You come across like an old friend and I just love you. I’ve gone through several traumatic life events since 2014 and I don’t even recognize myself or my home. It’s all overwhelming and I don’t know where to begin 💚💚💚

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you so much! I appreciate you watching. 🙂

[@MiddlemistOne]

Have you tried Dana K White? She specializes in decluttering.

[@nancyfisher2128]

I can totally relate to you, Marsha! I went from having a huge family on 3 sides (step, in-law, and immediate) to feeling like I am the end of the family line in the last 2 years. I am 75 and have become the depository for ancient family records and collectibles. I have found Anggela's videos priceless in just getting by from day-to-day. Start small, baby-steps. Hire a local housecleaner/organizer if you can or enlist a helpful friend. It may take awhile to find the right person, as I have only recently found one I love. Only do as much as your emotions can handle and handle your emotions, physical boby, and mental state with care. Watch only uplifting and funny videos. You might need to turn off the news! Be Blessed and know that you are loved!

[@teem9010]

i love your honesty and clear way of speaking. just wanted to say!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you for the kind words!!!😍😍😍

[@trishmorton2035]

I really appreciate these videos.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Glad you like them! Thanks for watching!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Yay! I love to see comments like this. Thanks for watching the show. 👍

[@debramccormick456]

Couple notes: 1) I’ve saved old phone books just for ADDRESSES they contain as almost everyone has a cellphone now and has gotten rid of their landline. 2) Heard this years ago: Have a “Happy File” where notes of thanks (and how wonderful you are😂) are kept for when you’re having a bad day. I had one for years and recently got rid of it as I picture my kids saying, “WHY on earth did she save this stuff???” after I’m gone. That happy file probably meant more to me when I was younger.😉

[@AskAngelaBrown]

The happy file sounds awesome! Maybe try my happy bell, it works just at great! So glad that you are decluttering so your children don't have to do after. Sending hugs. 😊🤗

[@lifewithfizz1329]

On the topic of moving I filled 2 skips ( dumpsters) with stuff before moving 3 years ago. Plus numbers of give-aways to charity shops. But...I have an old laundry hamper that was filled with clothes when I moved. It is still there. Three years later. Full of clothes 🙄

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks so much for sharing about your move. Keep us updated on the status of the hamper. 👍

[@PCbythebeach]

Angela, you are a blessing. I LOVE that you answer messages, even a year later, with such tenderness & positivity! Thank you❤ Ive gotten rid of a lot, but have ADD & I'm visual, so everything I use is out, all the time. it is VERY messy & upsetting. Maybe you have a video on how to organize working clutter for visual people?: like pens, sticky notes, school work for teachers, important mail, daily use stuff? I also think we have 12 junk drawers filled with pens, check books, screwdrivers, matches, old phones, wires, sentimental cards, etc. We live in an apartment & need to store tools, sports equipment, paperwork, clothes, kitchen stuff, cleaning supplies, yarn, puzzles,decorations, childhood memories... Everything we own is in our OLD apartment. Other videos I watch have beautiful kitchen cabinets, new floors & lots of space. It looks super easy to clean and manage. No one ever shows managing old places. We don't have children to donate to, so that's out. I'm going to watch all of your videos asap. Sorry for the long post. Thanks for the encouragement!! I adore you. ❤❤❤

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you for your kind words. 🤗 I love the progress you have made with your clutter- good for you! Here is a video I made on decluttering office supplies, maybe you can find some helpful tips by watching it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWKzlGSmeN51lbM I appreciate you being here! ☺

[@NadoCrowFriend]

After watching every video if yours, in this series- About Clutter- I am so inspired to go work on some of my own “clutter”. And I do. I’m pacing myself, so I don’t get over whelmed, or hurt myself ( I’m no spring chicken) I’m going to bed at night feeling better and better ( because of my progress with the decluttering) Thank You !!! For this inspiring series!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I LOVE this! Thanks for sharing this with us. I'm so proud of you. 👏👏👏

[@joannebutzerin6448]

I have a box in my attic with many of my daughter's favorite toys. I don't think she wants it, but I think I'd better ask. Also, I have thought of getting a scanner several times, but now I am convinced it would be a good de-clutter investment. Thank you for the great ideas. I am excited to make further progress in the effort to be paper-clutter free.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks so much for watching the show. I’d love for you to keep me updated with your progress decluttering.

[@wordgirl6267]

@JoAnne Butzerin PLEASE , Don't get rid of ANYTHING that belongs to your daughter/ children ! Mine is 33 years old , lives @ 600 miles away & right now she's not speaking to me about things I've been storing for @ a decade ! Separate her stuff from yours , other family members, etc . & Have her over for lunch, dinner, weekend and both of you, please, take your time and reminisce , take pictures ( with the toys, memorabilia..) have lots of hugs, tissues, a good cry & a great laugh ! 🤗 Those items hold special meaning to you BOTH . Don't miss an opportunity that you can NEVER, EVER get back .

[@carolgeorge6409]

@wordgirl. Such a great idea♥️

[@leonasipes4092]

Miss Angela, I love your videos on Clutter, specially "Declutter Your Life" it So hit home with me and my life. Things DEFINITELY got to change and it's with me! Just going through life, I am SO not rich. Thank you for the eye opener. I watch your so when I can and listen at work while I clean. Beautiful Disaster Cleaning Service needs allot of adjustments. Your AWESOME!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you for your kind words and feedback, I appreciate it! Leona, you got this! I'll be rooting for you.

[@christyhynds7379]

That was an absolute fabulous video! Thank you so much for the incredible ideas ❤️

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Glad you liked it!! Thank you so much for the feedback and for taking the time to watch the video, I appreciate it!

[@ShellyWest-d8x]

Give me a space and I can fill it. I tell myself it's because I have a small house. . . Have been working on the declutter thing on my own and making some headway, but I find your style and encouragement really helpful. I don't beat myself up anymore. It's more that the older I get, I realize how my clutter habits are robbing me of the joy I could have from using that space differently - to do hobbies, have friends over, to relax and not be constantly preoccupied with the disarray of my surroundings. I'm so glad I found your channel.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Glad to be helpful!

[@lorenheard2561]

Thank you Angela!! Was able to go through a bunch of papers listening quite late to your group podcast!!! 🥰🐦🐿️Working on letting go of excess stuff!🌟✨

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Loren, That’s wonderful you were able to get some decluttering done. Keep up the good work, I’m routing for you! 😊

[@bethguilliams9646]

Thank you for this!! I'm drowning in decades of paper! Our own plus some from deceased family members. I love the last of this video that is asking if we ha e a system for all the different kinds of paper clutter.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

The key to remember is that just because something has been documented and is on paper does not make it valuable. You've got this. 👍

[@debbielynn6683]

Angela, just seeing this video and oh did I need this!! Thank you so much for the valuable info you are giving us. I have an Idea on what I’m going to do with most of the things you talked about today. Yes i have a lot of work todo but now I have at least a direction and plan to use. One thing I am having a hard time with that you brought up very quickly is cards, birthdays, holidays… etc. They are so meaningful to me and some are very pretty but more important are the notes or messages that are written inside. Now I have stacks of these and I’m really having a hard time just tossing them. Any advice or ideas. Thanks so much for all your video’s and the info that you provide us with. Keep them coming, thanks ❣️

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks for watching the show! I appreciate you taking the time to reach out and leave a comment.

[@k.6160]

I have been going through my mom's house and she saved every single card anyone ever gave her. She eas 90 when she died last August. Dhe never through anything away. Im the only surviving relative so i have tons of family members' items. It's been so overwhelming. Im the same way unfortunately. Now jer stuff is in my house and garage. I've been trying to take things to goodwill bit there's do many beautiful things, its hard to get rid of things.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I understand how overwhelming it can be to go through a loved one's belongings, especially when they've kept sentimental items like cards throughout their life. It's completely normal to feel attached to these items and find it challenging to let go. Take it one step at a time and be gentle with yourself during this process. Remember that it's okay to keep a few special items that hold deep sentimental value to you. If you're finding it difficult to part with certain things, consider finding ways to honor the memories associated with them without keeping the physical objects. For example, you could take photos or create a memory box with selected items. Donating to Goodwill is a wonderful way to give these beautiful items a new life while helping others. Remember, the memories you shared with your mom will always remain with you, regardless of the physical items. Take your time, be patient with yourself, and know that you're not alone in this journey. Sending you support and encouragement as you navigate through this process.💕😊🤗

[@KathyBibbo]

I feel like you’re my twin!! I am going through the exact same thing alone too. she also had Many many things and cards. my house and garage are filled with the boxes. I too have been donating and selling some. Some things I swap out with my stuff. It’s very emotionally draining some days, it’s ok to stop have a little cry and then move on. I tell myself my mother wouldn’t want me to be sad or clutter my house up the way she did. So just put one foot in foot in front of the other as they say. Eventually we will finish!! Good luck to you. 😊

[@abc-wv4in]

Taking photos of sentimental items helps me. Of course I still keep some things. One of my friends could not let an old broken boxy tv her deceased daddy gave her decades ago and she could not get rid of it. We convinced her to let us take photos of her with it, and she then let it go to the dump. Sad, but keeping broken appliances just doesn't work.

[@bitrudder3792]

Even with my mom getting rid of lots of stuff, it was still overwhelming. I hope the process is going/has gone well for you ❤‍🩹! I've decided to embrace what I have rebranded as "Swedish Life Cleaning." I want to the enjoy the perks of a cleaner space in THIS LIFE, while simplifying things for our offspring or whoever else has to deal with our stuff later! And I know, from helping hoarders, that it is a very bad idea to wait until later to do this.

[@awalden]

This is (was!) the bane of my existence! Paper... ugh! Mail, magazines, letters, cards, bills, flyers, photos, matchbooks, mementos, menus, coupons... SO MUCH PAPER!!!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

+Allen and…? Is this the year you go paperless? What will you eliminate first? Receipts? Paper maps? Newspapers? Keep me posted, I’m here rooting for you. 👍

[@garlicgalore]

This is so great - I've been listening while I'm decluttering a "lumber room" and you all are such good company! About paper and tech - I am best using both. I have a learning difference and my brain does best handwriting records on paper. I seem to need the spatial interaction to remember that I did something. Luckily I enjoy it! With the tech age I've learned to transfer things to digital as necessary, but it's still the paper copies I can put my hands on fastest - all in a "vintage" file cabinet, lol! I do like the sound of some of the digital things you talked about, though, so I'm going to explore those at some time. It would be great to be able to access passwords and such like you did for your mother, Angela. Thanks for an encouraging video!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Rachel, Thank you so much for you very nice comment. I appreciate you watching the show. 👍

[@julieg4003]

Hi Angela, i had a massive clean out on the weekend by going through all my paperwork. I ended up shredding 5 bags full. I still have abit to go still. It was very satisfying to get it done.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Julie, Wow, 5 bags! That does sound satisfying. Congratulations on doing such a fabulous job decluttering. 👏 👏

[@julieg4003]

@@AskAngelaBrown Yes, but the worst part is trying to get my husband to go through all his stuff. I found a lot of manuals for his gardening equipment etc and I wouldn't have a clue if he still has the item or not. Maybe we need a video on advice on how to get our partners involved to go through their stuff. 😃

[@lorrainemagarian2677]

Great job!

[@hotmetalslugs]

My problem is the mail for others in the house. I can’t throw out their stuff. And the pile grows high and deep. Anyway, I am not a house cleaner nor am I a Housecleaner. But I find your videos very motivating. Just remember some of us are dads.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

So thrilled Dad's are joining us. Thanks for spending some of your time with us today. 👏

[@hotmetalslugs]

@@audreyhuggins874 I may not have all the answers but I know there’s no way you should throw out someone else’s bills or W2.

[@if7363]

37:20 I'm keeping only some items, most of the other stuff I just take a picture of, especially when it comes to daughters artwork. She's studying art. Have also Google storage which is awesome since your searching word shows also where in text for example if you have a picture of book you have the match. Very helpful

[@AskAngelaBrown]

That's a fantastic approach! Thank you for sharing this

[@tiggywinkle7522]

Old family photos! We have boxes of slides from hub's family! Thanks for this series!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

You're welcome! I hope my suggestions and tips were helpful.

[@mendyviola]

Most of my paper clutter isn’t mail, but art art supplies, sheet music and historical family documents, and documents that are personally important and difficult to replace! Mail gets processed, sorted and discarded as necessary when it arrives, or paid quickly and put in the mail box. Cards that are sentimental have its own decorative box for preserving. I have an archival box for other papers that are important to me or my family, such as newspaper clippings, journals, paintings/drawings, etc. I will never toss my grandfather’s WWII documents and old family photos going back to the 1800’s. My stacks of art paper and art in process is another story. 😂 I have a system of horizontal drawers to keep them in that are closed to keep the dust of them. For long term personal files, I have a small filing cabinet for current and important documents, and a few plastic bins that hold hanging folders for longer term documents such as tax docs and medical files. Super important documents that are difficult to replace like passports, SS cards, birth/marriage/divorce & death certificates, college transcripts/degrees, car titles, etc, are in a fireproof box. The only insurance docs I keep are the current active docs. All others get shredded when the new ones arrive. I have a small hanging file folder for a rotating system of docs (keep 1 mo, 6 mo, 1 year). Any manuals for appliances are kept in 3-ring binders: one for built-in appliances, and one for temporary free-floating appliances. I have a separate file system for home improvements/repairs since most of that is deductible when the house is sold. ❤ I’ve managed document control at my company for decades. Luckily, this is one area that I have a very good system to manage.

[@bitrudder3792]

You are ready to make your own paper organization video, @mendyviola!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you for sharing your systems, these are great tips!!!👏👏👏

[@a.wodehouse2393]

"I only have paper clutter" but I love this youtube...thank you.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you so much! We love that you love us too!

[@janebadon3988]

Thank you-great ideas!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I’m so glad you like the video and appreciate you watching. 👍

[@jilliebean2574]

Great conversation!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the feedback!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks so much!

[@jvallas]

Phones can scan. No need to get a scanner unless you want something better. If you keep stuff digitally, it's really important for anything that would be catastrophic to lose that you keep at least one backup storage unit for each, preferably kept in another place; e.g., a child's house, a remote storage unit, etc. One version only of digital information can really be subject to failure. Edit: also, check now and again that whatever media you've stored the info on isn't obsolete and un-readable (think VHS tapes that kind of went the way of the dodo. Storage units can do the same when an operating system goes obsolete on our computers, for instance. Then our computer cannot read the files.)

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks for sharing these great tips!

[@marjoriejudge5348]

I used to get catalogs but haven't in over 10 years - but still get plenty of junk mail

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I love that you've stopped the companies from sending them.

[@marjoriejudge5348]

@@AskAngelaBrown I didn't actually stop them - things just started being online and also a lot of them just said the printing was too expensive

[@karenstoner6235]

I have really liked your suggestions, as I just suffer the terrible paper blizzard. I am in the process of downsizing all my paper files. It is quite a pile everywhere.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you for the kind words, I am pulling for you! Keep us posted!!👏👏👏

[@sandystevens7046]

Angela your really amazing

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you! I really appreciate your kind words. 😊

[@onebusymama2u740]

Check with your local community recycling center to shred paper as they will shred all right in front of you. I use to do this and need to revisit that process. Thank you Angela for all your helpful advice- Appreciate you!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you so much for sharing this tip!

[@lynnesullivan3047]

I need systems with photos, mail, govt stuff like what to do with Medicare bills EOB. I am so glad this is a long video

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Glad to be helpful!👍

[@digsindirt4490]

Re COMMUNITY SHRED DAYS - these are good *IF* they’re using a professional shredding company that is shredding on site. You can bring your bag or box and hand it to the company and they will shred it in front of you. Our bank uses a company called Shred It and that’s how they do it. If they aren’t shredding it in front of you then do not hand over your papers. Shred them at home.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Great point! Thanks for sharing.

[@sharleneedwards201]

Angela just found your site and I’m hooked I am truly a fan❤❤I will be sharing and liking the videos and will watch as many as I can I’ve binged watched just today 👍

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you so much!

[@deniseharrell1591]

I am trying to conquor paper. I bought ikea cardboard magazine files and labeled the contents with a gold felt tip pen (books by type.) To match, I bought white ring binders to label in gold felt tip and a laminating machine. One binder is for copied recipes from cookbooks. One is for finances. One is for hair, makeup, wardrobe notes. One is for lists for groceries, cleaning supplies, perpetual stuff by category. One is for health, mental physical, spiritual. I'm working on this project. It's a process. Mail is hard because you have to think of id theft. Catalogs pile up fast!!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Denise, I am routing for you as you conquer paper. Keep me posted on how you are doing with the process. 😊

[@bitrudder3792]

@deniseharrell1591 - hope your paper decluttering is coming along beautifully! If you are still feeling burdened by the ID theft problem, something that helped me was to have a dedicated folder (could be a box, or whatever) to put things to shred for identity protection. I'm better at tossing out catalogs, but for those I love to look at, I did a 12 month rotating folder system, then an every-other-month system, to prompt me to purge. I'm ID conscious also, due to a family member whose identity was stolen by someone who also committed a crime, and we've caught people going through our trash/recycling. I'll even pull the outer page of a magazine or catalog that has my name and address on it to put into the to-be-shredded spot. Maybe overkill, but I feel better doing that.

[@krimsonskye]

Thank you for so many useful tips! I get so much helpful information watching your YT videos. In this one, you mentioned digitizing household documents and filing. Is there a video on that? Could you comment with the link? I run a business and household and always look for ways to streamline. Thanks again!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I actully did a live stream. Check this out, hope its helpful. Decluttering Old Photos and Important Documents #ClutterCornerLive kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKXMq5aEj9iDoaM

[@Mary-fn5rl]

I get so many address labels ithrow them in my litter bag forbmy cats. That way nobody coukd use them. Also if i shred a credit card, i cutt them up w scissors and throw in the litter, when i shred paper and recycle it i make sure it's bagged up so it doesn't mess up the machineries for the paper other wanted to recycle .

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks for sharing this tip!!!👏👏👏

[@Mary-fn5rl]

How about stamps and address labels and stickers?

[@heikesauerwein6318]

Thanks for this video! Sometimes you don't even need to buy a scanner - I often take just a picture.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

You're welcome! Thank you for joining the conversation and sharing your tip!😀

[@nancyfisher2128]

After shredding many items and encouraging my Mother to do the same, we discovered that our County recycling operation cannot recycle shredded papers (something to do with the machines used)! So now I only shred things that absolutely necessary and recycle the others.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Good to know, thanks for sharing this information!

[@Mary-fn5rl]

Will they be accepted. if they are bagged instead?

[@nancyfisher2128]

They will be accepted but that will put them into the regular land-fill trash. I have since found out that my local Staples will shred and recycle documents. Check with your local Solid Waste Management. It seems the rules change depending on local programs.

[@flygirl2b]

I’m good on electronic calendar! Work in progress for the rest - scanned a ton already but realizing I should not be scanning everything!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Good for you! 🙌 Sounds like great progress, hope it continues to go well!🙂

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Keep up the good work!!!👏👏👏

[@KeeperOfTheLee]

You do not have to have a scanner. There are several free and very good scanning apps for the phone. I scan photos, documents, and photos of mementos with them

[@AskAngelaBrown]

That's good to know, thanks!

[@suzanneemerson9787]

Can you suggest a good scanning app for iPhone 12?

[@paccarcrap]

Concord bowl paper statements, not at auto pay. I have several bills that I don’t get statements for and I just go in and pay it online through my bill pay at the bank so I know a lot of people don’t want to be told for have a bill directly withdrawn from their account.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Going paperless is certainly helpful in reducing paper clutter! Thank you for sharing!!👏

[@jeanettehowell8906]

💕💕💕YES. 40 ish or 50ish phone book & other magazines

[@AskAngelaBrown]

☺💙

[@tiggywinkle7522]

Yes, password vault was huge for me! LastPass free version

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks for sharing!

[@Betielix]

I use my old phone books/ as memorabilia I stick there, drawings I make, photos, phrases and ideas I want to keep, and the photos, I paste them on top of the text that I do not care.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

How unique! I'm happy you've found a system that works for you! 🙂

[@bz3548]

Hello Angela, Thank you so much for this video. I will go back to watch it again. My biggest problem is all the paper mail. I really don’t like looking at at it ( bad mistake as I have found important papers dated back a few month) as embarrassing this is for me, I want to be honest with you. I just put the paper mail in a market shopping bag and store it in my second bedroom. Once in a while I go through a couple of them and because most have my name and address, not to mention the ones from the bank offering credit cards. I shredded them. I go back to the bedroom and I get disgusted to see that I’m not making progress. I need to find the energy and desire to make it happen. However, the rest of my house is always company ready. I will update, as soon as I see progress 😊. I want my bedroom to be a bedroom, again. Your video will help me to file, shredded and do anything else you suggest here. Oh, last year I called AARP, to ask them to please stop sending me so much mail, they did.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you for sharing your story! Remember to take it one step at a time, and don't be too hard on yourself along the way. You're making progress!❤

[@bz3548]

@@AskAngelaBrown Thank you Ángela😊🌷

[@jeanettehowell8906]

💕💕💕 I deal with my Mail when it comes in, I throw away the junk, however, I don’t have that system of what to do with the important mail, I’m looking for suggestions I’m listening and working on as I go today, I use auto pay loving it, this my first time listening, no on electronics filing system

[@AskAngelaBrown]

That's great! To better handle important mail, consider creating designated folders or bins for different categories, establishing a regular schedule to go through mail, and setting up a filing system with labeled folders. You can also digitize documents for easier access and utilize reminders or alerts for time-sensitive items. Finding the right system may require some trial and error, so be open to adapting and refining your approach. Good luck with establishing a more organized mail management system! You got this!

[@nicolabarlow5124]

I don't have a system for ANYTHING! I've had a food processor since 1988 that has never been used. I threw away the box and don't know where I put the instruction booklet so am hanging on to the item until I find the booklet.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Feeling like you lack a system for organizing your belongings can be overwhelming. It's understandable to hold onto items like your unused food processor, especially when you're missing the instruction booklet and have discarded the box. However, there are a few approaches you can consider. Firstly, try searching for the model of your food processor online. Many manufacturers provide downloadable instruction booklets or instructional videos on their websites. Additionally, reaching out to online communities or forums dedicated to cooking or food processors might lead you to individuals who can share their experiences or provide guidance. Another option is to contact the manufacturer directly to inquire about obtaining a replacement instruction booklet. Alternatively, you can experiment with the food processor by starting with basic tasks and recipes to familiarize yourself with its features. Remember, decluttering and organizing can help create a more efficient living space, so it may be worth evaluating the items in your home and letting go of those that no longer serve a purpose.

[@nicolabarlow5124]

@@AskAngelaBrown Thank you. I really don't need it as I have no space for cooking and live alone.

[@jvallas]

Photos: I scanned them all for myself, and gave the physical ones to my daughter (she wanted them, and they also serve as a backup).

[@AskAngelaBrown]

That's great! So glad that your daughter wanted the photos.

[@Ang7.8]

How do you clean the heating element on appliances so they are refurbished?

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Hi, it would probably be a good idea to check with the manufacturer of the specific appliance. I appreciate you watching! ☺👍

[@bitrudder3792]

So many great ideas in this video! I'd add that I've enjoyed the Freedom Filer tab sets/instructions. It is a system that allows you to file according to the rhythm of purging for each type document, per your own unique plan and needs. Aside from Active files, there are Permanent, Remove-Replace, Financial, Tax-Related, Archive, Supplies and Topical/Reference. Like your banker boxes that get re-used, files (or binders or digital folders) are divided into a desired rotation . 10 partitions for a 10 year cycle, for example. 2 partitions for Even/Odd days, months or years. 12 partitions to purge/replace things on a monthly basis, or any rhythm you like. Customers or Topical info might be divided into two sections or more sections: each time you use a file, you put it into the most current time period, however those are divided. You can see which things have become inactive and consider the appropriate action (Re-contact a client, purge or archive notes or catalogs, etc. ) Some folders/binder tabs might have colored dots or marks to indicate that when done, it goes somewhere else, like the tax folder or the archive folder, for example. You can invent your own cues to perhaps scan paper items before disposing of them, to limit how much ends up in your digital world. It is a nice system for people who love visual cues, and who like the guesswork taken out of "when do I purge this?" because you make the decision up front.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you for sharing this!

[@louisedillon6797]

Looking forward to your next video on photos

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks so much Louise!

[@kimperfect2295]

I got rid of 4 nail polish.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Hooray! I'm so happy for you. 👏👏👏

[@moniquemenegazzo1147]

What do we do with journal notes and entries

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks for your comment! For journal notes and entries, I find it helpful to categorize and archive them by theme or date. It keeps things organized and accessible when needed.

[@nancywalker1325]

I have a shredder the has 3 shredder slots, letter size, envelope size and credit cards. My shredder is a criss-cross shredder 😊

[@AskAngelaBrown]

That's a great for starting to get rid of your papers. But don't overuse or overload it, the shredder can get jammed or overheat. Happy Shredding!

[@nancywalker1325]

@@AskAngelaBrown I a machine repair person 😀

[@kailyns8159]

Angela, is there a hybrid system for paper clutter you recommend? We recently lost 3 family members and have to go through all their paper clutter. My grandmother left hundreds of boxes of paper clutter. A box will say Dishes and we open it and it’s rammed full of paper. Whereas my Aunt left box after box of loose pieces of paper like letters, notes, poetry she wrote. And my Uncle has everything on the laptop but it turned out that he gave my mother the wrong passwords so we can’t access any of his important documents, which has been a real pain while trying to deal with his estate. And 90% of my own sentimental category is all the writing I’ve ever done for leisure as well as school and work. I’m a writer and book editor. Written pieces are very important to me and I would love to be able to keep all my work in a couple albums that I can reference quickly. I have considered digital but the papers never scan right. They always get blown too far up to be legible and it won’t resize.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Kailyn, I am so sorry for your loss. I understand that you are trying to find a system that works well for your family and scanning has been a challenge. I recommend you make sure the scanner you are using is the right type of scanner for the preservation of your family documents. Using the right type of scanner may be helpful in this case. A high-quality scanner will give you the resolution you are looking for and the process will be quick and easy. Keep me posted on how you are doing with this project.

[@cathycoryell2351]

There is plastic bins designed for hanging folders. Keep birth certificates, home purchase, sale documents (label folder by address, if multiple properties). Keep car loan "paid in full letters", and similar things. Keep recent 6 months of banks statements so you can see whats reasoanble typical expenses, or if someone claims they are owed, you can see if it was recently paid. Old bills like utilities, credit cards etc can usually be tossed. Unless you, or a family member will take the time to curate , and read the poetry, it's OK to toss. Give yourself grace, that was part of their life, and not necessarily your hobby. If you want to save for now, at least do rough sorting, and group like with like. Put photos in one box, poetry in a different box, personal letters in another box, if the items are not already sorted. Condolences.

[@ajalicea1091]

Each month I take ANY condiment packs that we have and donate to others who are in need.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks for sharing that tip! 🤗

[@RD-vo5vq]

Any Christmas cards I get I hang them on a ribbon and display the ones I really like and some I save and display the next year.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

That’s a great idea! Thanks for sharing. 😊

[@Mary-fn5rl]

There are some nonprofits that take the card fronts. I know a girl that creates herown cards so I save her the card fronts . Winwin for all fcreTesher

[@Peace-tk3gr]

This is a big one for me. Thank you 🙂

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I’m routing for you! You can do it. 😊

[@abc-wv4in]

When my kids became young adults I bought a square trunk and put the sentimental items (baby books, newspaper clippings about them and their teams and activities, stories they'd written, etc.) into it and gave it to them. One of the trunks later got accidentally lost (which was upsetting to that person) and I think only one of them still has their trunk now. I probably should have waited until they were a little older but I was short on space at the time. Some people treasure such things and some don't. It's impossible to keep every school paper, etc., though, and I didn't do that. Not keeping anything, though, doesn't compute with me.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

That is a great way to preserve those memories! Thank you for sharing that!💙

[@lynlong1292]

For some of us we need to KNOW the most important documents to (have) safe keep.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Of course. Thank you for watching! 😊🙌

[@KathyBibbo]

Where is the link for the quiz? Thank you

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Hi. Here's the link: hoardingworld.com/cluttercorner/paper-clutter/ Thank you for watching! 😊

[@jessicaduvall5059]

Cards👍 photos👍

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you for being here and adding to the conversation! I appreciate it! 😊😃

[@Mary-fn5rl]

How about the charities you give to or 😊the crazy hospital/dr bills I get?

[@TheRhythmOfLife1972]

Speaking of organizing, use Chapter Headings because it would be easier to jump to the Topics, Questions & People Appearances. This was cery long and i had to leave but needed the Key Points of Interest.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

+Sandra C great tips. Thanks so much for suggesting them. That should be standard on all of our videos. We’ll have to do something about that. 👍

[@genxx2724]

I take my shredding to Staples. They charge .99 per pound and you put it into a locked container the service picks up. I got tired of buying shredders that burn out. The most expensive, powerful cross-cut shredder with a slot for credit cards lasted the shortest time of all. Buying again only encourages companies to make low-quality products.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Good to know, thanks for sharing!

[@suzanneemerson9787]

I’ve had an Amazon Basics brand shredder for years, and I shred A LOT. It’s held up very well. You do need to maintain a shredder by oiling it regularly. I didn’t do that in the past with a cheap shredder, and it died pretty quickly. Some say you can use canola oil, but we don’t eat that anymore, so I buy shredder oil from Amazon also. The bottle is convenient with its pointy top. It seems expensive, but you only need to use a tiny amount.

[@genxx2724]

@@suzanneemerson9787 Thank you!

[@bitrudder3792]

@genxx2724, Fellowes is another brand that you might keep in mind. Mine has been such a workhorse over the years: I simply mind my manners and don't try to feed it too much at one time. Give it a touch of machine oil every now and again. Avoid staples and gummy-sticky things (even if it SAYS it can handle staples). I'm not always in the same room as my shredder, trash and recycle bin, but in the other location where I might process mail or sort paper, I have a freestanding box with a few folders: Active, File, Supplies, Shred, Repurpose, Recycle, Trash. (Repurpose = I like to use the backs of paper because I'm endlessly brain-dumping and drawing my ideas). So whatever I have in my hand, I can get it off the surface for dealing with in batches. Shredding can be very pleasant: I have a nice memory of helping my sister purge her paper clutter, covered with sensitive info. We decided to binge watch something deliciously enjoyable on tv that was really enticing, and at every break I would shred her shred-stack for 2 minutes and then go back to the show, while she worked on other tasks. Painless and FUN!

[@TwistedRootsVanVelzerPress]

working remotely from home is the exact right time to get a scanner .... I have a scanner printer in the same machine so no extra space is taken.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

That’s great! Keep me posted on how the scanning goes. 👍

[@laurad1487]

Looks like my entire computer room, and my living room, and the table in my breakfast nook and my writing desk, and the top of my drier...no clue what is important to keep or how long, and i dont trust cyber storage or billing/banking

[@AskAngelaBrown]

It can be overwhelming to deal with clutter and important documents, especially when it comes to deciding what to keep and for how long. It's understandable to be hesitant about using digital storage and online banking. It may be helpful to start by sorting through items and paperwork, separating what is important and what can be discarded or donated. You can also research secure and reliable digital storage options and speak with your bank or billing companies about their security measures. Take it one step at a time and don't hesitate to ask for help from a trusted friend, relative or professional if needed.

[@merriferrell2818]

I have the same problem

[@lisamarie5882]

Wish there was more talk about recycling than throwing away when it comes to paper

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Of course, there are many ways to get rid of paper. You can recycle anything that doesn't have sensitive information on it. We suggest shredding or burning if you have private information for active bank accounts or bills etc.

[@dccd673]

My mindset is probably not good for me in terms of mail. I tend to ignore opening mail bc I know it’s a bill. I then end up finding a bunch of unopened mail in my stack of papers.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

+DC CD I know what you mean. The challenge though is that no mail ever opened itself. So tossing it, addressing it and shredding it are the only options. Stacking it only turns into missed payments, late fees and collection notices. I don’t want the later for you. You deserve better than that. 🤗

[@kimperfect2295]

You are really organized!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you! 😊

[@karelinramos7663]

I have lot’s of old and used notebooks from school. We are currently moving out. Since they are currently taking space in my closet I would not like to take them over to the new house. How could I correctly dispose of them?

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Do the notebooks have personal information you want to shred?

[@karelinramos7663]

@@AskAngelaBrown yeah some of them have my name, my mom’s sign and stuff that normally the school requires.. we have a shredder but is a small one. I don’t think it could handle more than 25 notebooks for example..

[@jessicaduvall5059]

Bills👍

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Ok! Thanks for watching and commenting. 🙂

[@sherrieflynn252]

Bought a scanner 2 years ago Need help to figure out how to use it I know how to clean my house but I don't know how to organize my papers......

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Papers are so easy to stack up and become a pile that can be overwhelming. It makes me happy to know that you want to organize them. You can search for a KZbin tutorial on how to use the scanner model that you have.

[@carolgeorge6409]

To Do List ...Would appreciate help

[@AskAngelaBrown]

+Carol George sure. Do you have a specific questions about to do lists? What are you working on?

[@jessicaduvall5059]

Both

[@AskAngelaBrown]

😀👍

[@carolgeorge6409]

I canceled all of my magazines sub except Aarp lol

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I didn't know it but my husband signed me up for AARP. I didn't know until I went to pickup a rental car the other day. He'd booked the car and they asked me for the card. Then they found the number on my account. I'm like WAIT! What? LOL. 😂

[@Medietos]

Beware of Autopay, I lost my home because of it. I yhought my bank woyuld see to it that there was money reserved on my accoubt every month, but they don't! One has to then make the payment whe n the money has just about come in. Usually I was always mindful of the rent and to not take out too much. But once I didi., and the bank didnt' contact me about that.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Hi. Thank you for joining the conversation. 🙂

[@kalliemj]

i really hope everyone recycles the mail instead of throwing it in the trash. Please don't add to our landfill if you can avoid it!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you for watching the video and for sharing your input, I appreciate it!

[@annoravetz5908]

That is what I’m struggling with now-nail polish. My daughter moved out long ago, and she did not take, nor did she ever come back to retrieve, any of her nail polish. There must be 2 dozen to 30 bottles that keep cropping up in various places. Any ideas for these? Ps her favorite color was green. I have never worn green nail polish and cannot foresee me ever wearing it, not even on St. Patrick’s Day!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Here's a live stream we did on nail polish, hope it helps: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gGatoXyImZuBmMU

[@cathycoryell2351]

Throw it out. She moved out, and has not come back for it. Move on, it's okay. If you feel a few could be kept, keep 5, that appear to be fresh/new. It does eventually go bad. Set a very low limit and have her take them, when she does visit. Your home is not a long term storage facility.

[@maryogarvey1]

give to someone who wants to paint rocks. they are great.

[@carolgeorge6409]

Phone books i throw away when next one comes

[@AskAngelaBrown]

LOL. I keep mine from the mailbox to the trash bin. I NEVER use phone books anymore. I just ask the phone to give me the number and Siri looks it up for me. I've gotten really used to the convenience of voice search.

[@debrabrown5728]

Some "Archive" items, such as deeds, wills, vehicle titles, passports, etc. may be better stored in a fire/ water resistant safe or safe box.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you for sharing this tip!

[@monicacollins8289]

Im drowning in boxes of old photos, and my sister is in the same situation with slides and reels of film we inherited. They are dear to us but they take up a lit of room, and its costly to convert the 8mm film to dvd by professionals.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Dealing with a large collection of old photos and inherited slides and film can feel overwhelming. Here are some suggestions to help you manage the situation: Prioritize the most sentimental items and consider digitizing a select few to save on costs. Share the expense of converting film with your sister. Use archival-quality photo boxes or albums for organized storage. Store film reels in a cool, dry place. Explore DIY alternatives with affordable film scanners. Remember to involve your family and take breaks during the process. By selectively digitizing and finding suitable storage solutions, you can manage space and costs while preserving cherished memories.

[@yvonnedelories4780]

Same here! Now that I'm retired I said that I want to buy my own equipment to play my 8mm tapes in order to copy them to DVDs etc. I said that 2 years ago but haven't done anything other than researched diff types of equipment so I can download my precious 8 mm tapes!

[@Elite_Finishes_CleaningService]

always remember anything that is been discard has to be absolute sure about

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks for sharing your tip!

[@sl4983]

Exactly

[@dawngallegos5396]

Our cell phone service is not always functioning, our electric goes out fourteen times plus per year, so no electronic is not good replacement.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

What would be a good replacement in your situation?

[@dawngallegos5396]

@@AskAngelaBrown we can only rely on paper. Digital files require the use of electric to access. Unless we carve stones 😔

[@jessicaduvall5059]

Mail👍

[@AskAngelaBrown]

👍🤗

[@Becky3392]

What about household paper like insurance onfo

[@AskAngelaBrown]

All important papers should be stored in a safe space

[@teresawilkinson2495]

AARP donates to the Democrat Party - so be aware what you are joining/supporting

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you for watching. 🙂

[@marystephens9947]

Junk mail is part of the problem

[@AskAngelaBrown]

You're absolutely right! Junk mail is indeed a contributing factor to the problem of clutter and excess in our lives. It can be frustrating to receive unwanted mail that adds to the pile of papers and clutter in our homes. Finding ways to reduce or eliminate junk mail can help create a more organized and peaceful living environment. Some steps you can take include opting out of unsolicited mailings, contacting companies directly to be removed from their mailing lists, and utilizing services that help manage and reduce unwanted mail. By addressing the issue of junk mail, we can take a step towards minimizing unnecessary clutter and creating a more streamlined living space.

[@danaventura5998]

OMG ULINE!

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thanks for sharing your suggestion and for watching the video, I appreciate it!

[@manyhats3846]

Paper is bio- degradable, good for environment. Electronics do not last for ever. Then they are hunks of junk, not bio- degradable. Yes, trees are being cut! They are also being planted. Yes it does take many years to replace them. What a dilema! I think that a better system could be created. Humans can't find the solution, only solutions that make more stress and pollution! Angela, I enjoy your videos and your personality, please do not think this comment is an attack on you or your video. I was just rambling on about an issue. I was thinking how you are so successful! 👍

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I appreciate you sharing your point on electronics versus paper (trees). 👍

[@manyhats3846]

@@AskAngelaBrown Oh, THANKS for your reply!!☺

[@judithbooher9381]

I am subscribed to your videos. How can I watch them in order? Thank you

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Thank you so much for subscribing and welcome to the channel!! When you go to my KZbin page and click on videos theres a Sort By button. When you click on it it willl give you the option to sort the videos by most popular, date added oldest and date added newest.

[@jazzk4072]

Swedish death cleaning - look it up. It’s a little morbid, but it works.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I have heard of this. Thanks for commenting and for watching the video.

[@sharilhouston8916]

I wish this program was an 8 months old so that you could see the comments and hopefully you will see. But I am absolutely in happy tears because this one recording just you showing the milk plastic box and the 9 by 10 manila envelopes and doing a whole year. The one sister shared how she sticks receipts in her car and her purse or a drawer in her home but then when she needs the receipt she can't find I at least since I've moved have one small box that has a lid with a hinged lid and I have it right by the door so it is as I undo my groceries and do all the other things I just pop it in there. But one of the things that is held me back from doing an online business and a regular weekly blog ensuring stories out of my incredible interesting life to challenge others to look at their things in their lives and record them in chap books (chapter booklets) That you just do 10 to 30 pages and only make 10 to 20 copies that you didn't hand out to family and friends. But the thing that's helped me back is the frustration at having to keep all these papers for the IRS or the auditor or for the accountant at the end of the year and you made it so simple why have I never heard or seen that type of thing I love the fact that it's portable you don't have to have a file cabinet in fact I can get rid of my file cabinet that is way way way too heavy and go back to plastic ones that I can keep my office supplies in and wow you just totally totally set me free girl I'm so glad that the good Lord had me watched is past video and that you have it on KZbin. Thank you also for your practical rather than pretty containers and getting it done instead of making it perfect I'm just in my latter years being set free And hopefully in a week or two I can get my Princess Tiara Club blog or video blog up and running and I'll be able to do it on a regular basis because it's simplified. A tiara is my weapon of warfare. I can't control the weather or circumstances but I can control my attitude. And it's my way of helping nurses and caregivers that struggle of feeling adequate that they are important and they are worthy to have wearing a tiara. I encourage gals to put it on and go walking around the block and give away free smiles no extra charge. Or go shopping and it's amazing how people treat you with respect ask questions of why you're doing it and you can share that it's your way of giving away free smiles by the end of the day you feel so much better Again thank you so so much for the hard work you've done for so many years and the freedom that you've brought to so many women's lives. I'm seventy-eight years old and my husband are 50-years moved to have in last year and I've had to deal with all the stuff he left behind and my grandma's and my mom's and like you said she saved my report card that had A's on them . I'm thankful that she was proud of me and the accomplishments that I made but yeah I don't need them now I've tried to downsize is it is from a two bedroom and a garage into a one-bedroom and it's been tough but you definitely gave me some definite wonderful wonderful philosophy that I now can apply From a grateful spiritual Grandma😂🎉

[@AskAngelaBrown]

I'm so happy you found this helpful! 😊 Thank you so much for sharing and watching! 👏👏👏

[@sharonmariec]

Mail goes in the garbage can and bills are auto debits. I only have a few.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

That's great! Glad to know that you have a system in place. Thanks for tuning in!

[@ginawallace9945]

Yes paper calendars and electronic No coupons-

[@AskAngelaBrown]

👍